plural of חָרָשׁ; mechanics, the name of a valley in Jerusalem; Charashim, craftsmen.
Transliteration:Chărâshîym
Pronunciation:khar-aw-sheem'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term Chărâshîym (חֲרָשִׁים), Strong's H2798, is a plural noun derived from the singular חָרָשׁ (charash), Strong's `{{H2797}}`. Its primary semantic range encompasses "craftsmen," "artisans," "mechanics," or "skilled workers." This refers to individuals engaged in various skilled trades, such as metalworking, carpentry, stonemasonry, or engraving. Beyond describing a group of people, Chărâshîym also functions as a proper noun, designating a specific geographical location: "the Valley of Craftsmen" or "the Valley of Charashim." This dual application—referring both to the practitioners of a trade and to a place named for their profession—is crucial for understanding its biblical usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Chărâshîym appears in two distinct biblical passages, both offering valuable contextual insights:
1. **[[1 Chronicles 4:14]]**: "And Meonothai begat Ophrah: and Seraiah begat Joab, the father of the valley of Charashim; for they were craftsmen."
In this genealogical record of the tribe of Judah, the phrase "father of the valley of Charashim" (אֲבִי גֵּי חֲרָשִׁים) explicitly links a lineage to this valley. The subsequent explanatory clause, "for they were craftsmen" (כִּי חֲרָשִׁים הָיוּ), directly clarifies the origin of the valley's name. This verse confirms that the valley was named after the skilled artisans who inhabited it, suggesting a community renowned for its craftsmanship, perhaps even a hereditary trade passed down through generations. This highlights the importance of skilled labor within the tribal structures of ancient Israel.
2. **[[Nehemiah 11:35]]**: "Lod, and Ono, the valley of craftsmen."
Here, Chărâshîym again appears as "the valley of craftsmen" (גֵּי הַחֲרָשִׁים), listed among the settlements reoccupied by the returnees from Babylonian exile. This passage, part of a list detailing the distribution of the population in Judah and Benjamin, confirms the valley's existence as a recognizable geographical landmark near Lod and Ono. Its inclusion in this list of inhabited places underscores its significance as a known locale, likely retaining its name due to historical association with its skilled inhabitants, even centuries after the period described in Chronicles.
Together, these occurrences paint a picture of a specific region known for its specialized labor, where the identity of the place was intrinsically tied to the vocations of its residents.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the singular form, חָרָשׁ (charash), Strong's `{{H2797}}`, meaning "craftsman," "artisan," or "smith." This root is foundational to understanding the plural form.
Broader related concepts include:
* **Skill and Artistry**: The Bible frequently praises skill (חָכְמָה - chokhmah, `{{H2451}}`) and artistry, particularly in the context of constructing sacred objects and spaces. Figures like Bezalel (בְּצַלְאֵל, Strong's `{{H1212}}`) and Oholiab (אָהֳלִיאָב, Strong's `{{H1701}}`) were divinely gifted with wisdom and skill for the work of the Tabernacle ([[Exodus 31:1-5]]).
* **Labor and Work**: The broader concept of human labor (מְלָאכָה - mela'khah, Strong's `{{H4399}}`) is a foundational aspect of creation and human existence ([[Genesis 2:15]]). The specialized labor of craftsmen is a vital component of societal function and development.
* **Community Identity**: The naming of a place after the profession of its inhabitants highlights how shared vocation could contribute to a community's distinct identity and reputation.
### Theological Significance
The presence and naming of the "Valley of Charashim" carry several theological implications:
1. **Dignity of Labor**: The Bible consistently elevates the dignity of human labor. God Himself is portrayed as the ultimate Creator and Craftsman ([[Genesis 1:1]], [[Psalm 19:1]]). The existence of specialized craftsmen, even to the point of naming a place after them, affirms the value and necessity of skilled work within God's created order. It suggests that such professions are not merely secular pursuits but contribute to the flourishing of society as intended by God.
2. **Divine Provision of Skills**: The gifting of specific skills, as seen in the example of Bezalel and Oholiab, indicates that abilities for craftsmanship are often divinely bestowed. This suggests that the craftsmen of the Valley of Charashim, too, operated under a divine endowment of talent, enabling them to contribute their unique expertise to the community.
3. **Order and Specialization in Society**: The existence of specialized trades like those practiced by the *charashim* reflects God's design for an ordered and interdependent society. Different members contribute different skills, fostering communal well-being and enabling complex projects, such as the construction of the Tabernacle or Temple, or simply the maintenance of daily life.
4. **Community and Identity**: For a community to be known by its craft speaks to a strong sense of collective identity rooted in shared purpose and skill. This reflects a biblical understanding of community where individuals find their place and purpose within the larger body.
### Summary
Chărâshîym (חֲרָשִׁים, Strong's `{{H2798}}`) signifies both "craftsmen" and "the Valley of Craftsmen," a geographical location named for its inhabitants' skilled professions. Biblical occurrences in [[1 Chronicles 4:14]] and [[Nehemiah 11:35]] confirm its dual nature as a descriptor of people and a place. The Chronicler's explicit explanation in [[1 Chronicles 4:14]] underscores that the valley was named due to its residents being skilled artisans, highlighting the importance of specialized labor in ancient Israelite society. Theologically, this word affirms the dignity of human work, the divine origin of skills, and God's design for an ordered community where diverse talents contribute to collective flourishing. The "Valley of Charashim" stands as a testament to the value placed upon craftsmanship and the identity forged through shared vocation within God's covenant people.
TRV